Leeds United reportedly want to sign Newcastle United goalkeeper Freddie Woodman on loan during the January transfer window.
Bailey Peacock-Farrell’s form since returning to the Leeds side for the last two games has potentially given Marcelo Bielsa reason to believe that he does not need to sign a new number one goalkeeper in January.
Nevertheless, with Jamal Blackman’s loan now over, the Whites surely must add to their options when the window opens.
One of the names that has been linked with a potential switch to Elland Road is Freddie Woodman. The Chronicle reported last month that the Newcastle stopper is being lined up for a potential loan move to the Championship high-flyers.
Woodman has been on the bench for Newcastle’s last two games, but it would surprise few if he did end up leaving temporarily in January. He has the potential to be the Magpies’ future number one, but Martin Dubravka is understandably closing the door on all of his rivals at the moment.
A loan move to Leeds could benefit all parties if Peacock-Farrell’s form dips again. But perhaps a more recent report regarding Dubravka’s future makes Woodman’s situation seem a lot less certain.
Calciomercato reported at the weekend that Juventus are eyeing the Slovakia international, who has proved to be an inspired signing for Rafa Benitez’s side. He joined the club permanently for £4 million in the summer, as reported by The Sun.
While there any question marks surrounding Dubravka’s situation, it seems a lot more difficult to imagine Woodman being given the green light to leave St James’ Park in any capacity next month.
Leeds should still ask about the goalkeeper as Newcastle may have no intention of listening to any offers for their number one. But they also should prepare themselves to switch their attention towards another target.
The Daily Express reported last month that Rangers goalkeeper Wes Foderingham was also on Leeds’ radar. And with Foderingham’s path being blocked by the remarkable form of Allan McGregor, it seems entirely possible that Steven Gerrard could be open to listening to good offers for the Englishman.
With Dubravka now attracting attention from one of Europe’s biggest heavyweights, Leeds surely need to brace themselves for their pursuit of Woodman to be much tougher than originally expected.
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